Q: Dear Jim: I don't want to install permanent tinted window film because I want the passive solar heat gain during the winter, but I need to block the sun's heat, glare and carpet fading. I still want a good view outdoors to watch the kids. What simple-to-install, low-cost options do I have? - Meg F.

A: Dear Meg: Although installing permanent insulating window film is one of the most effective and attractive sun-control methods, it sounds like you might prefer using reusable window film. You unroll the film and install it against the glass during the summer and remove, re-roll and store it away during the winter. With proper care, it can be reused for many years.

Most reusable window films are made of a material (thin vinyl) similar to the removable film labels on new television screens or microwave doors. They cling to a smooth glass surface by a natural static charge in the vinyl material. They hold tight, but can be peeled off in seconds to store away each winter.

Self-cling window film is simple to install yourself. Unroll the film on a table and cut it with scissors to a size about one-half inch larger than the windowpane. Clean the window with a glass cleaner and leave it very wet. Place the film against the top of the window and roll it downward. Spray the film with the cleaner and run a squeegee over it to remove any bubbles. Trim off the excess and don't disturb it for a day or so. There is no adhesive, so you just pull it loose to remove it.

Control heat, glare, fading through windows

The self-cling window films are available in several levels of tint. Once the entire window is covered with a lightly tinted static-ding film, it really is not noticeable even though it blocks much of the glare and fading of carpets and furniture. It will not create the reflective appearance that is common with some permanent window films.

When you are selecting the type of window film for your windows, it is important to compare the performance (sun-control) specifications. The packaging will often list these specifications. You cannot base the performance of the film solely on the visual level of the tint.

The key specifications to compare are visible light trans-

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mitted (glare control), shading coefficient (sun's heat control) and total ultraviolet rejection (blocks UV fading rays). A low visible light transmitted property blocks more glare, but gives a more tinted view of the outdoors. A lower shading coefficient means less heat gets indoors through the window. A higher total UV rejection blocks more of the sun's fading rays.

If you have a decorative flare, choose a stiffer static-cling window film that has a colorful stained glass pattern printed on it. It actually resembles real stained glass. The film feels stiffer than standard window film, but it is the same thickness and is installed in the same way. You can still remove it each winter, but many people prefer to leave it up year-round because it is so attractive and provides privacy. There are many patterns available and some are open enough to allow for a good view outdoors.

Another excellent summer heat reduction option is using sun-control window screening. The sun-control window screening can be installed in the existing window screen frames or come in roll-up exterior or interior shades made of the screening material. Screening is very versatile and can be used the same way as ordinary window screening. These screens have a dense weave and are often made of fiberglass, polyester or a combination of the two. Various screen weave patterns block from about 40 to 90 percent of the sun's glare. The screening looks very dense on the roll in the hardware or home center store, but you can easily see through them when standing near them from indoors. From a further distance away outdoors, they also provide privacy.

Don't forget to install the screening in your storm doors too, especially if you have pets. Special sun-control "pet-resistant" screening is available for windows and doors. This allows you to leave the primary door open to get natural ventilation without worrying your pet may tear through the screens. The pet screening is installed exactly the same way as any screening in any door or window. It is just made of a much more durable weave and material and blocks some of the sun's heat and glare.

Still another option is pulldown shades made of standard window film. Many of the kits are designed to fit the window opening precisely for an attractive appearance. Shades that use clear or tinted film with a simulated stained glass pattern are also available.

Finally, if your house has a basement or sunken first floor with some window wells below grade, they can be ugly and allow the sun's glare to reflect off the shiny metal well. Flexible window well liners that are printed on plastic can be installed inside the well. They are available in attractive sky, water and landscape scenes.

Write for (instantly download - www.dulley.com) Utility Bills Update No. 970 - buyer's guide of 12 manufacturers of static-cling window film (plus a small sample), sun-control shades/screens, and window well liner manufacturers listing specifications, features and prices. Please include $3 and a business-size SASE. James Dulley, Illinois Country Living, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45244.

James Dulley is a mechanical engineer who writes on a wide variety of energy and utility topics. His column appears in a large number of daily newspapers.

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